Philippine coconut exporters generated $1.72 million in sales at the FABEX (food and beverage expo) Kansai 2025, securing immediate purchase orders and new leads for long-term supply agreements in Japan’s expanding food and wellness market.
The outcome underscores rising Japanese demand for Philippine coconut products and reinforces the country’s position in the high-value, plant-based segment.
Strong buyer interest was recorded at the Philippine Pavilion, which was opened by PTIC-Osaka Commercial Counsellor Michael Alfred V. Ignacio and Philippine Consul General in Osaka Voltaire D. Mauricio.
The pavilion featured 25 Philippine exporters showcasing plant-based beverages, natural sweeteners, specialty oils, and other coconut-based ingredients aligned with Japan’s preference for health-oriented and sustainable food products.
Participation in the trade show was organized by PTIC-Osaka and the DTI–Export Marketing Bureau, with support from DTI Laguna and DTI Region IV-A under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).
The initiative aims to help coconut farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) integrate into strategic export markets and move up the value chain.
Ahead of the exhibition, the Philippine delegation conducted market scoping and retail scans to assess pricing, packaging, consumer behavior, and competitor positioning.
Exporters also visited Cocowell’s Sari-Sari Store, gaining insights into how coconut products are positioned and purchased in Japan’s wellness-driven retail environment.
Ignacio said the strong results at FABEX Kansai reflected both the competitiveness of Philippine exporters and Japan’s confidence in the country’s coconut industry.
“FABEX Kansai 2025 showcased not only our exporters’ competitiveness but also Japan’s confidence in the Philippine coconut supply and innovation. These results strengthen our long-term positioning in the Japanese market and open new opportunities for sustainable commercial growth,” Ignacio said.
Consul General Mauricio echoed this view, noting that the delegation’s performance highlighted the world-class quality of Philippine coconut products and the readiness of MSMEs to meet the requirements of advanced markets.
“We are committed to further enhancing these partnerships to create lasting, mutually beneficial economic opportunities,” Mauricio said.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the delegation’s performance at FABEX Kansai—attended by more than 30,800 visitors—supports broader efforts to strengthen regional MSMEs, build export resilience, and secure higher value for Philippine agricultural products in developed markets.